Armed police officers swarmed a picturesque Cotswolds village this morning following alarming reports of a suspected shooting on a street often hailed as one of England's most beautiful.
Panic on a Picturesque Street
The major police response was triggered in Bibury, near Cirencester, shortly after 8:15am on Thursday, 15 January 2026. Contractors working on the contentious Rosemary Cottage development claimed they were "shot at with a rifle" as they began work, stating the window of an excavator was shattered. The workers said they were left visibly shaken by the incident, which unfolded on the iconic Arlington Row, frequently described as "England’s prettiest street".
Major Police Operation Launched
In response to the urgent call, Gloucestershire Constabulary deployed multiple Armed Response Units to the scene. The operation was supported by police sniffer dogs and aerial drone units in a comprehensive search for evidence and any potential suspect. The property at the centre of the incident has reportedly been the subject of a local planning dispute, adding context to the tense situation.
Incident Downgraded to Criminal Damage
Despite the initial serious reports, police later stated that no one has confirmed hearing any shots and that no projectile, such as a bullet, has been recovered from the scene. As a result, the force is currently treating the event as a report of criminal damage rather than a firearms incident. A thorough investigation remains ongoing as officers work to establish the exact cause of the excavator's window being broken.
The sudden influx of armed officers into the normally tranquil and tourist-friendly village caused significant disruption and concern amongst residents and visitors. The incident highlights how swiftly a serious police operation can unfold, even in the most idyllic of UK settings.
